Waxman's Retirement Creates DC Policymaking Void

Law360, New York (January 30, 2014, 7:59 PM EST) -- Filling the legislative shoes of 40-year congressional veteran Rep. Henry Waxman will be a herculean task, experts say. The California Democrat announced his retirement Thursday from a landmark career that included changing the way generic drugs are approved and helping overhaul the Clean Air Act.

Waxman's departure at year's end will create a significant policymaking void on Capitol Hill, which stretches beyond his current status as the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, a body he chaired prior to the Republicans regaining control...